Glossary
Terms from the
packaging industry
Our glossary explains terms from the packaging sector, taking into account legal regulations and German standards.
The Packaging Act (VerpackG), which is based on the European Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste, is referred to. Furthermore, the German standard DIN 55405 Packaging Terminology Terms is used as a basis, which takes into account terms for the entire field of packaging.
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A
accelerated aging
Accelerated aging is a test method used to simulate long-term aging processes within a comparatively short period. To achieve this, packaging or materials are exposed to elevated temperatures and, in some cases, specific climatic conditions. The objective is to estimate how material properties will change over the intended shelf life.
In the field of medical packaging, the ASTM F1980 standard is frequently used as a basis. Mathematical models allow conclusions to be drawn regarding the stability and shelf life of packaging systems. The test is used, for example, to evaluate changes in seal strength, material embrittlement, or barrier properties. Accelerated aging tests assist manufacturers in substantiating shelf-life claims and streamlining the product release process.
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ASTM F1929
ASTM F1929 is a test standard for conducting leak tests using the dye penetration method. It is used to detect channeling and leaks in the seal seams of non-porous packaging materials and is frequently employed for sterile medical packaging.
During the test, a dye solution is applied along the seal seam. If the dye penetrates the packaging through existing leaks, the leaks can be clearly identified and localized. This makes the method particularly suitable for evaluating the quality of sealing processes and packaging systems.
ASTM F1929 is an established procedure within the scope of packaging validation and quality control. The test helps ensure packaging integrity and minimize risks to product protection or sterility.
Related terms: Leak testing, seal seam, ASTM F2096, sterile medical packaging.
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ASTM F1980
ASTM F1980 is a test standard for conducting accelerated aging tests on packaging systems. It is used particularly in the medical technology sector to assess the long-term shelf life of packaging within a shortened testing period.
In this process, packaging is exposed to elevated temperatures, which accelerates natural aging processes. Mathematical models are then used to estimate how material properties and packaging performance will evolve over extended storage periods. The standard is frequently used to demonstrate the shelf life of sterile medical packaging.
Accelerated aging tests assist manufacturers with product approvals, packaging validation, and quality verification. At the same time, they enable the efficient development of new packaging systems without the need for years of real-time storage.
Related terms: Accelerated aging, sterility, sterile medical packaging, packaging validation.
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ASTM F3039
ASTM F3039 is a test standard for evaluating the resistance of flexible packaging to mechanical stress caused by pointed or sharp-edged objects. The aim of the test is to determine the puncture resistance of packaging materials and systems in order to identify potential weak points at an early stage.
Particularly in the case of medical packaging, protective packaging, or flexible shipping packaging, an accidental puncture can lead to product damage or a loss of protective function. The test enables an objective comparison of different materials and material combinations, as well as an assessment of their suitability for the intended application.
The results assist manufacturers in selecting appropriate packaging materials and optimizing existing packaging concepts. ASTM F3039 is frequently used in packaging development, quality testing, and material comparisons.
Related terms: packaging testing, sterile medical packaging, puncture resistance, material testing.
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B
burst strength
Burst strength describes the ability of a material or package to withstand increasing pressure without failing. It is a key parameter for evaluating the mechanical strength of packaging materials, pouches, films, or sealed packaging systems.
To determine burst strength, test methods are employed in which pressure is increased incrementally until material failure or a leak occurs. The results provide important information regarding packaging stability and assist in the selection of suitable materials for demanding applications. Burst strength plays a particularly important role in the case of sterile or pressurized packaging.
Related terms: burst pressure test, leak tightness, seal seam, packaging testing.
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burst pressure testing
Die Berstdruckprüfung dient der Ermittlung des maximalen Drucks, dem eine Verpackung, ein Verpackungsmaterial oder eine Versiegelung standhalten kann, bevor es zum Versagen kommt. Dabei wird der Innendruck kontrolliert erhöht, bis eine Undichtigkeit oder ein Materialbruch auftritt.
Die Prüfung wird insbesondere für flexible Verpackungen, sterile Barriere-Systeme und versiegelte Verpackungen eingesetzt. Sie liefert wichtige Informationen über die Stabilität von Verpackungssystemen und deren Eignung für Transport, Lagerung oder Sterilisationsprozesse. In regulierten Industrien wie der Medizintechnik oder Pharmaindustrie gehört die Berstdruckprüfung häufig zu den standardmäßigen Nachweisen der Verpackungsqualität. Die Ergebnisse unterstützen Hersteller bei der Entwicklung sicherer und zuverlässiger Verpackungslösungen.
Verwandte Begriffe: Dichtheit, Siegelnaht, Medizinische Sterilverpackung, ASTM F1140.
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BFSV
BFSV Verpackungsinstitut Hamburg GmbH is an independent testing, research, and training institute specializing in packaging, packaging systems, and transport stresses. The institute supports companies in the development, evaluation, and optimization of packaging solutions.
Its range of services includes packaging testing, transport simulations, damage analysis, and research projects, as well as seminars and training courses on current packaging topics. Companies from the industrial, retail, logistics, and medical technology sectors rely on the institute's expertise to make packaging safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
In addition, BFSV is actively involved in research and development projects focused on sustainable packaging, the circular economy, and innovative packaging concepts. By combining scientific expertise with practical application, the institute serves as a link between research and industry.
Related terms: packaging testing, research, academy, sustainability, transport simulation.
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Bubble Leak Test
The bubble leak test is a procedure for testing the seal integrity of flexible packaging and packaging systems. The aim of the test is to detect leaks that could compromise the packaging's protective function. Often conducted in accordance with the ASTM F2096 standard, this procedure is an established method for evaluating packaging integrity.
During the test, the package is pressurized with air and then observed while submerged in water or placed in a suitable testing environment. The emergence of air bubbles from the packaging system indicates a leak. Even minute leaks can be detected in this way. The method allows for a quick and relatively simple assessment of packaging seal integrity.
The bubble leak test is used particularly for sterile medical packaging, flexible pouches, and other packaging systems where seal integrity is critical to product protection, shelf life, or sterility. The test is suitable for both the development of new packaging concepts and quality control during ongoing production.
Since even the smallest leaks can compromise protective function, the bubble leak test is a vital tool for ensuring packaging quality. The procedure is frequently combined with other tests—such as dye penetration testing (ASTM F1929), seal strength testing, or burst pressure testing—to obtain a comprehensive picture of packaging integrity.
Related terms: seal integrity, ASTM F2096, leak testing (dye penetration method), seal seam, burst pressure test, sterile medical packaging.
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C
climate chamber
A climatic chamber is a testing device used to set and control temperature, humidity, and—in some cases—other environmental conditions in a reproducible manner. It is employed to examine the behavior of products, packaging, and materials under defined climatic conditions.
In the field of packaging testing, climatic chambers serve to simulate storage and transport conditions. For instance, they can replicate high humidity, significant temperature fluctuations, or extreme climatic zones. This allows for the assessment of changes in material properties, corrosion risks, and the impact on a package's protective performance.
Climatic chambers are frequently used for climatic testing, aging studies, and corrosion protection tests. The results obtained help companies optimize packaging and products for various usage and transport conditions and ensure their quality over the long term.
Related terms: Climatic testing, climate / standard climate, accelerated aging, corrosion protection, VCI film.
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climate testing
During climate testing, packaging, packaging materials, or products are exposed to defined temperature and humidity conditions to analyze their behavior under various environmental influences. The aim of the test is to detect potential changes in material properties, protective performance, or product quality at an early stage.
Climate tests are frequently conducted in climate chambers where temperature and relative humidity can be precisely controlled. Typical applications include evaluating packaging for international supply chains, investigating corrosion risks, and testing plastics and composite materials. Furthermore, climate testing is often employed as part of complex transport and packaging tests to simulate real-world storage and transport conditions as realistically as possible.
Related terms: standard climate, climate chamber, accelerated aging, corrosion protection.
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corrosion protection
Corrosion protection encompasses all measures aimed at protecting metallic materials from corrosive environmental influences. Corrosion arises from chemical or electrochemical reactions between a material and its environment and can lead to material loss, functional malfunctions, or the premature failure of components. Metallic products are frequently exposed to heightened risks of corrosion, particularly during transport, storage, or international shipping.
Various protective measures are employed to prevent corrosion. These include, for example, coatings, oils, waxes, VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) packaging, or specialized protective films. The effectiveness of such systems is often evaluated using test methods such as the salt spray test in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9227. Selecting a suitable corrosion protection solution depends on factors such as the material, operating environment, storage duration, and mode of transport.
Related terms: salt spray test, VCI film, climate testing, corrosion testing.
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D
DIN 55468
DIN 55468 outlines test methods for evaluating the performance of packaging and packaging materials under realistic stress conditions. The standard aims to examine and comparably assess the protective capability of packaging against mechanical stresses encountered during storage, handling, and transport.
Various stresses occurring along the supply chain can be simulated during packaging testing. These include, for example, impacts, vibrations, compressive loads, and transport-related stresses. The standard assists companies in systematically evaluating packaging systems and identifying potential weaknesses as early as the development phase.
Conducting tests in accordance with the standard establishes a robust basis for quality assurance and helps reduce product damage and complaints. Furthermore, the results can be used to optimize packaging in terms of material usage, costs, and protective performance. This is particularly relevant for companies shipping sensitive or high-value products that require reliable packaging performance.
Packaging tests based on recognized standards like DIN 55468 help improve the comparability of test results and demonstrate the suitability of packaging for domestic and international transport processes. Consequently, they are a key component of modern quality and packaging management systems.
Related terms: packaging testing, transport testing, drop test, vibration testing, packaging materials, quality assurance.
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DIN EN ISO 9227, ISO 9227, DIN 9227, NSS-Test, Salt Spray Test
DIN EN ISO 9227 is an international standard for salt spray tests used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of metals, coatings, and corrosion protection systems. In this process, test specimens are exposed to a standardized saline atmosphere within a salt spray chamber to simulate corrosion phenomena under defined conditions.
The standard is frequently used to compare different coatings, surface treatments, or anti-corrosion packaging materials. It serves as a key indicator of the protective performance of materials and systems, particularly in the automotive industry, mechanical engineering, and corrosion protection applications.
While the results do not allow for a direct prediction of a product's actual service life, they provide a reliable basis for comparisons and quality assessments.
Related terms: salt spray test, NSS test, corrosion protection, VCI film.
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DIN EN 868-5, EN 868-5
DIN EN 868-5 is part of the European series of standards for packaging materials and sterile barrier systems for medical devices intended for sterilization. The standard defines requirements for heat-sealable transparent pouches and reels made of paper and plastic film used for the sterile packaging of medical products.
The aim of the standard is to ensure that packaging systems reliably maintain a product's sterility during storage, transport, and handling. In addition to material properties, it defines requirements regarding processing, labeling, and quality.
Compliance with the standard is a key component of packaging validation and quality management systems in the medical technology sector. It assists manufacturers in providing safe, standards-compliant packaging solutions for sterile medical devices.
Related terms: Medical sterile packaging, sterility, seal seam, packaging validation.
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drop test
The drop test is a procedure used to simulate impact loads that may occur during transport, transshipment, or handling. It involves dropping a packaged item from specified heights onto its faces, edges, or corners to evaluate the packaging's protective performance.
Testing is frequently conducted in accordance with standards such as ASTM D5276 or DIN EN 22248 and constitutes an essential part of many transport and packaging tests. Drop tests help identify weaknesses in packaging designs at an early stage and prevent transport damage. They are used for both consumer goods and industrial products, providing valuable insights for packaging optimization.
Related terms: packaging testing, ISTA, vibration testing, transport simulation.
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dye penetration test
The dye penetration test is a destructive testing method used to detect leaks in flexible packaging and sterile barrier systems. The aim of the test is to visualize leaks in seal seams, material transitions, or packaging materials—defects that are often invisible to the naked eye. The ASTM F1929 standard, developed specifically for non-porous packaging materials, is frequently used as the basis for this procedure.
During the test, a specialized dye solution is applied directly to the seal seam or specific area of the packaging being examined. If the dye penetrates the packaging through a channel or leak, the leak can be precisely located. This makes the method particularly suitable for evaluating the quality of sealing processes and packaging systems.
The dye penetration method is commonly used for medical sterile packaging, as even the smallest leaks can compromise the protective function of the sterile barrier. Medical device manufacturers employ this test for purposes such as packaging validation, process release, and routine quality control. The results provide valuable insights into the integrity of the packaging system and help minimize risks to product quality and patient safety.
Compared to other leak detection methods—such as the bubble leak test—the dye penetration method allows for highly precise localization of leaks. It is therefore a proven technique for assessing packaging integrity and is often combined with other tests, such as seal strength, burst, or aging tests.
Related terms: Leak tightness, seal seam, ASTM F1929, medical sterile packaging, bubble leak test, packaging validation.
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E
environmental stress packaging course
The Environmental Stress Packaging Course provides expertise on the impact of environmental and transport-related stresses on packaging and products. The focus is on stresses such as vibration, shock, compression, and fluctuations in temperature and humidity that can occur throughout modern supply chains.
Participants learn how to test, evaluate, and optimize packaging under realistic conditions. Typical course content includes transport simulations, packaging testing, and damage analysis, as well as the interpretation of relevant norms and testing standards.
Such training helps companies reduce packaging damage, gain a better understanding of testing requirements, and specifically enhance the performance of their packaging systems. In doing so, they make a significant contribution to quality assurance and product protection across the entire supply chain.
Related terms: Packaging training, packaging testing, transport simulation, ISTA, drop test.
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I
ISO 8611
ISO 8611 is an international standard for testing flat pallets. It outlines standardized procedures for evaluating the load-bearing capacity, stability, and serviceability of pallets under various operating conditions. The standard aims to objectively assess pallet performance and verify their suitability for storage, handling, and transport.
Testing involves simulating factors such as static loads, dynamic loads during transport, and stresses within racking systems. Parameters such as deformation, load-bearing capacity, and potential material damage are examined. The results provide manufacturers, logistics service providers, and users with vital information regarding the load limits of a load carrier.
Applying ISO 8611 helps enhance supply chain safety and prevent failures caused by damaged or unsuitable pallets. Furthermore, the standard serves as a basis for product development, quality control, and the comparison of different pallet systems.
Related terms: pallet testing, load carrier, logistics, transport testing.
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ISTA
The International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) develops globally recognized testing standards for evaluating packaging under realistic transport conditions. The aim is to simulate logistical stresses such as impacts, vibrations, compressive loads, and climatic conditions.
Among the best-known test procedures are ISTA 1A, ISTA 3A, and ISTA 6. ISTA 3A, in particular, is frequently used in mail-order and e-commerce sectors because it replicates typical parcel logistics processes. Companies use ISTA tests to optimize packaging, reduce product damage, and lower packaging costs. Furthermore, numerous retailers and platforms require proof of successful ISTA testing as a quality criterion.
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M
medical sterile packaging
Medical sterile packaging serves to protect sterile medical devices until they are used on a patient. The packaging must ensure that the sterile barrier remains intact during transport, storage, and handling, while also allowing for aseptic removal.
Requirements for such packaging are outlined in standards such as the DIN EN 868 series. Typical materials include medical-grade paper, Tyvek®, and composite films. In addition to material specifications, testing for seal strength, integrity, aging resistance, and transport durability plays a crucial role. Packaging systems for medical devices are subject to strict regulatory requirements and must demonstrate their suitability through various validation and testing procedures.
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N
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outer packaging
An outer packaging can contain one or more sales packaging and is offered for sale to the end consumer together with these or is used to stock sales shelves or to bundle several sales packaging (§3 Para. 1 S.1 VerpackG). The use of secondary packaging can vary depending on the specific requirements of the product, transportation and storage. It helps to ensure that goods remain safe and protected and facilitates the efficient transportation and handling of products.
P
Packaged good / product
Goods of any kind to be packed or packaged are referred to as packaged goods. If it is a liquid packaged good, it is also referred to as a filling good. Packaged goods can be, for example, food, medicines, chemicals, clothing or furniture (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.87).
The requirements of a packaged or filled good can be specific and depend on characteristics such as size, weight and sensitivity. These and other characteristics determine the type of suitable packaging material and necessary packaging aids.
packaging
According to the Packaging Act, packaging is “products made of any material for the containment, protection, handling, delivery or presentation of goods, which may range from raw materials to processed products, passed on by the manufacturer to the distributor or end consumer […]” (§3 para. 1 VerpackG). Annex 1 of the Packaging Act also specifies additional criteria for packaging and defines exceptions that do not constitute packaging.
The choice of packaging materials and the design depend on the characteristics of the product to be packaged, the transportation requirements, the environmental aspects and the legal regulations. Packaging plays an important role in protecting products throughout their life cycle and meeting the requirements of the supply chain. It helps to ensure product safety, maintain value and increase customer satisfaction. It provides customers with legally required and voluntarily declared information.
In addition, DIN 55405 also includes in its definition the aspect of the diverse functions that packaging should fulfill during its use and defines packaging (noun) as “the totality of all packaging materials, in particular packaging materials and packaging aids, to fulfill a given packaging task” (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.115).
packaging aid
Packaging aids, together with packaging materials, are components of packaging and are used when additional functions of packaging, such as sealing, labeling or handling, are to be fulfilled (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.87). When packaging packaged goods, they serve to facilitate the process, ensure product safety or optimize storage. At the same time, they increase customer satisfaction by ensuring that a product arrives in perfect condition and is easy to handle. Packaging aids include, for example, labels, adhesive tape, cushioning material and desiccants.
packaging container
Packaging materials such as paper, plastic or glass are formed into a suitable packaging form to enclose a packaged good. This form is referred to as packaging container and makes up the largest part of a package (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.87). Packaging containers can consist of different packaging materials and can be developed into different shapes and types, such as:
- Boxes made from the packaging materials cardboard or corrugated cardboard
- Narrow or wide-mouth containers made from the packaging material glass
- Bags, trays or bottles made from the packaging material plastic
- Metal cans or tin containers
- Boxes made of wood
packaging materials
Packaging materials and components are defined as all materials and items used to directly contain, wrap, or secure a product. Examples include boxes, bags, films, cushioning materials, closures, and labels. Together, they constitute the product's packaging.
Packaging materials fulfill various functions. They protect products against mechanical stress, moisture, contamination, and other environmental factors. At the same time, they facilitate storage, transport, handling, and marketing. The selection of suitable packaging materials depends on product requirements, transport conditions, and considerations regarding cost-efficiency and sustainability.
As part of packaging testing, these materials are frequently evaluated for durability, material properties, and protective performance to ensure optimal packaging functionality.
Related terms: packaging, packaging testing, packaging material, sustainability.
packaging testing
Packaging testing refers to the systematic examination of packaging regarding its protective function, quality, and suitability for transport. The goal is to ensure that products are reliably protected against damage, environmental factors, and physical stresses throughout the entire supply chain.
Various testing methods are employed depending on specific requirements. These include, among others, drop tests, vibration tests, climatic tests, compression tests, and leak tests. Such examinations often adhere to international norms and standards, such as ISTA, ASTM, or ISO. Packaging testing enables the identification of weaknesses during the development phase and helps companies avoid complaints, transport damage, and unnecessary packaging costs.
In addition to quality assurance, packaging testing contributes significantly to sustainability by allowing for the targeted optimization of packaging and a reduction in material usage.
Related terms: transport testing, ISTA, drop test, climatic testing, sustainability.
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packaging testing , ISTA test, ISTA 3A, ASTM D4169 DC13
Packaging testing involves the systematic evaluation of packaging regarding its protective capabilities, stability, and suitability for transport and storage. The goal is to ensure that products are reliably protected against damage and environmental factors throughout the entire supply chain.
Depending on requirements, packaging tests can simulate various types of stress. These include, for example, drop tests, vibration tests, climatic tests, and compression tests. Testing procedures often align with international standards such as ISTA or ASTM. The results help companies optimize packaging solutions, reduce transport damage, and demonstrate compliance with the requirements of retailers, logistics service providers, or customers.
Related terms: packaging testing, drop test, climatic testing, ISTA.
packaging training courses
Packaging training courses provide specialized knowledge regarding packaging, packaging development, standards, testing procedures, and logistical requirements. The aim is to equip employees to handle current challenges in areas such as product protection, sustainability, and packaging optimization.
The curriculum ranges from the fundamentals of packaging technology—covering transport stresses and packaging testing—to regulatory requirements and sustainability issues. Practical examples and real-world cases of damage help participants apply theoretical knowledge directly to operational challenges.
For companies, packaging training offers an opportunity to build internal expertise, improve packaging processes, and reduce costly transport damage or customer complaints. At the same time, it fosters an understanding of current standards and developments in the packaging sector.
Related terms: BFSV, packaging testing, ISTA, sustainability, packaging development.
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pallet testing
Pallet testing encompasses various procedures for evaluating the load-bearing capacity, stability, and serviceability of pallets. The aim is to ensure that pallets can reliably withstand the loads encountered during storage, transport, and handling.
Depending on requirements, static, dynamic, or long-term load tests are conducted. These tests may examine factors such as load-bearing capacity, deformation under load, or resistance to repeated loading. The ISO 8611 standard serves as a key basis for testing flat pallets. The results assist manufacturers, logistics service providers, and users in selecting suitable load carriers and contribute to safety throughout the entire supply chain.
Related terms: ISO 8611, load carrier, packaging testing, transport testing.
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pallets
Pallets are standardized load carriers used for the storage, order picking, and transport of goods. They enable the efficient handling of goods using industrial trucks and contribute significantly to the safety and cost-efficiency of logistics processes.
Depending on the application, various types of pallets made from wood, plastic, metal, or composite materials are used. Pallet load-bearing capacity is frequently assessed through testing based on standards such as ISO 8611, which evaluates factors including load capacity, stability, and deformation behavior.
Related terms: pallet testing, ISO 8611, load carrier, logistics.
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product packaging
According to DIN 55405, a product packaging consists of the packaged goods and a primary packaging (defined as the packaging container coming in direct contact with the product), which in turn is composed of a packaging material and the required packaging aids. The first stage of the packaging process is considered here and the filled product packaging is in direct contact with the packaged goods (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.6). Its function is equivalent to the sales packaging defined in the German Packaging Act.
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reusable packaging
Reusable packaging refers to packaging systems that are not discarded after use but are instead employed multiple times for the same or a similar purpose. Reusing packaging across multiple cycles helps conserve resources, reduce packaging waste, and lower material consumption. Typical examples include plastic containers, transport boxes, collapsible crates, pallets, and specialized load carriers for industrial supply chains.
Compared to single-use packaging, reusable systems require careful logistical planning. Factors such as return transport, cleaning, repair, and turnover frequency significantly influence a system's environmental and economic performance. Consequently, whether reusable packaging is truly more sustainable than a single-use alternative depends on the specific conditions of use.
Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) or sustainability evaluations are frequently conducted to provide an objective assessment. These analyses consider factors such as material consumption, transport requirements, CO₂ emissions, and the number of times the packaging can be reused. The results assist companies in selecting appropriate packaging systems and meeting requirements related to the circular economy and sustainability strategies.
Given the growing demands for resource efficiency and waste prevention, reusable packaging is becoming increasingly important in both the B2B sector and e-commerce. It is considered a key component in the transition toward more sustainable packaging and logistics systems.
Related terms: Reusable packaging sustainability assessment, circular economy, packaging testing, pallets, sustainability.
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S
sales packaging
Secondary packaging is used in the second stage of the packaging process and encloses the primary packaging or several product packs. In addition to the primary packaging, it consists of other packaging materials and packaging aids (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.6).Its function is the same as the secondary packaging defined in the German Packaging Act.
salt spray test
The salt spray test is a standardized corrosion testing method used to evaluate the resistance of materials, coatings, and corrosion protection systems. In this test, test specimens are exposed to a continuous salt spray in a test chamber to simulate corrosive environmental conditions. The test is most commonly conducted in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9227, which describes various test methods such as the Neutral Salt Spray Test (NSS).
In the packaging and automotive industries, the salt spray test is used to compare the effectiveness of corrosion protection measures such as VCI packaging, coatings, or surface treatments. Depending on the requirements, the test duration can range from a few hours to several weeks. Although the test does not allow for an exact prediction of service life, it provides important comparative data for evaluating corrosion protection systems.
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seal integrity
Seal integrity refers to a package's ability to prevent the ingress or egress of gases, liquids, particles, or microorganisms. It is a key quality attribute of many packaging systems and significantly influences the protection, shelf life, and safety of packaged products.
Especially with food, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices, even the smallest leaks can have serious consequences. Various test methods are used to verify seal integrity, including the dye penetration test (ASTM F1929) and the bubble leak test (ASTM F2096). The results provide important information regarding the integrity of the packaging and seal seams.
Related terms: leak testing, bubble leak test, seal seam, sterility.
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seal seam
A seal seam is the bond formed between two packaging materials using heat, pressure, or other joining methods. It ensures that the package remains closed and fulfills its protective function against moisture, oxygen, contaminants, or microorganisms. The quality of the seal seam is of critical importance, particularly for flexible packaging and sterile medical packaging.
The properties of a seal seam are influenced by various factors, including material combination, sealing temperature, contact pressure, and dwell time. Seal strength tests in accordance with ASTM F88 are frequently conducted to evaluate the quality of the bond. The objective is to ensure sufficient strength while simultaneously allowing for the controlled opening of the package.
Related terms: seal strength, seal integrity, sterile medical packaging, ASTM F88.
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seal strength
Seal strength describes the mechanical strength of a sealed joint between two packaging materials. It is a critical quality characteristic for sterile, airtight, or moisture-resistant packaging. The ASTM F88 standard is frequently used to determine seal strength; it describes various test methods for so-called peel tests.
During the test, the force required to open or separate the seal is determined. The results provide insight into the quality of the sealing process as well as the suitability of material combinations. In medical technology in particular, seals must be securely closed on the one hand, yet allow for controlled opening on the other. Values that are too low may indicate leaks, while values that are too high may impair usability.
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secondary packaging
Secondary packaging is used in the second stage of the packaging process and encloses the primary packaging or several product packs. In addition to the primary packaging, it consists of other packaging materials and packaging aids (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.6).Its function is the same as the secondary packaging defined in the German Packaging Act.
shake test
The shake test is a testing procedure used to simulate the vibration and oscillation stresses that can occur during transport, handling, and storage. During the test, a packaged item is subjected to defined movements on a vibration table to replicate the stresses typical of road, rail, air, or sea transport.
The aim of the test is to identify potential weaknesses in packaging, products, or load securing systems. Repeated stress can reveal damage that would not occur under static conditions. Shake tests are therefore a key component of modern packaging testing and are frequently conducted as part of ISTA procedures or other transport simulations. The results help companies reduce transport damage and optimize packaging systems in a targeted manner.
Related terms: vibration testing, packaging testing, drop test, ISTA.
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standard climates
Standard climates refer to standardized temperature and humidity conditions that are used for testing, storage or conditioning of materials and packaging. By using uniform environmental conditions, test results become comparable and reproducible.
Climate tests and material tests are often carried out after a defined storage period in a standard climate in order to minimize external influences. In addition, packaging and products can be specifically exposed to different climatic conditions in order to examine their behavior under realistic environmental conditions. Such tests provide important information about the durability, material stability and protective effect of packaging.
Related terms: climate testing, climate chamber, accelerated aging, corrosion protection.
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sterility
Sterility refers to the state of being completely free from viable microorganisms. In medical, pharmaceutical, and laboratory technology, product sterility is of critical importance, as even minor microbial contamination can compromise a product's safety and functionality. Consequently, sterile medical devices must be reliably protected against contamination during manufacturing, packaging, transport, and storage.
Sterile packaging plays a pivotal role in this regard. It forms a so-called sterile barrier that prevents microorganisms from penetrating the package prior to the product's use. Requirements for materials and packaging systems are outlined in standards such as the DIN EN 868 series. Additionally, packaging undergoes testing—including seal strength tests, leak tests, and aging tests—to verify its suitability.
Demonstrating sterility involves not only the sterilization process itself but also the validation of the entire packaging system. Sterility can be maintained until the point of use only when the packaging, sealing process, and storage conditions are properly aligned. For this reason, ensuring sterility is an essential component of quality assurance in the medical technology and pharmaceutical industries.
Related terms: Sterile medical packaging, leak tightness, seal strength, accelerated aging, DIN EN 868.
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sustainability assessment of reusable packaging
Sustainability assessment of reusable packaging examines the environmental, economic, and functional impacts of a packaging system throughout its entire life cycle. The aim is to evaluate the actual environmental benefits of a reusable solution compared to alternative packaging concepts.
Various factors are taken into account, including material usage, transport routes, rotation rates, cleaning, repair requirements, and the reusability of the packaging. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methods are frequently employed to provide reliable data on resource efficiency and carbon footprint.
The results support companies in making strategic decisions regarding sustainable packaging systems and help align environmental and economic objectives. The assessment of reusable packaging is becoming increasingly important, particularly in light of rising regulatory requirements.
Related terms: Reusable packaging, circular economy, sustainability, packaging development.
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TL 8135-0043
The technical delivery specification TL 8135-0043 defines requirements for packaging and corrosion protection systems intended for industrial applications. Such specifications are used primarily in sectors with stringent quality standards and serve to standardize testing and quality requirements.
The specifications may cover requirements regarding packaging materials, corrosion protection measures, testing procedures, and the documentation of packaging processes. The objective is to reliably protect products against damage and corrosion during storage, transport, and international shipping.
For companies, technical delivery specifications provide a binding basis for evaluating packaging solutions and for coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, and customers.
Related terms: corrosion protection, VCI film, packaging testing, salt spray test.
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transport pack
Several secondary packs can be combined into a transport pack using additional packaging materials and packaging aids, if necessary as part of a third packaging process (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.6).
transport packaging
Transport packaging plays a crucial role in the safe and efficient transportation of goods and helps to ensure that products arrive at their destination in perfect condition.
Transport packaging is typically not intended for the end consumer and should “facilitate the handling and transportation of goods in such a way that direct contact and transport damage are avoided” (§3 Para. 1 S.1 VerpackG). (translation by author)
Transport packaging can take various forms, depending on the characteristics of the products and the requirements of transportation. Examples of transport packaging are corrugated cardboard boxes, transport crates, shipping tubes or drums.
According to DIN 55405:2012, transport packaging is defined as a combination of several secondary packages as part of a third packaging process using suitable packaging materials and, if necessary, packaging aids (DIN 55405:2014-12, 2014, p.6).
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VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) films
VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) films are specialized packaging materials designed to protect metal components from corrosion. These films contain volatile corrosion inhibitors that deposit a protective layer onto metal surfaces within the packaging, thereby mitigating corrosive effects.
VCI packaging is widely used in the automotive industry and mechanical engineering, as well as for the storage and global shipment of sensitive metal components. The effectiveness of a VCI film depends on factors such as material quality, film thickness, packaging integrity, and storage conditions. Assessments often involve climatic testing, corrosion testing, or product-specific internal standards. When used correctly, VCI systems can reduce the need for additional anti-corrosion oils or coatings.
vibration testing
Vibration testing simulates the oscillations and shocks that can occur during transport and logistics. In this process, packaging or products are subjected to defined vibration profiles on specialized test rigs to reveal potential damage or structural weaknesses.
Vibration tests are an integral part of many packaging and transport tests, as well as various ISTA or ASTM testing protocols. They help identify issues such as material fatigue, the loosening of components, or packaging damage at an early stage. The insights gained assist companies in enhancing transport safety and optimizing packaging systems.
Related terms: shake test, packaging testing, transport testing, ISTA.
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Sources:
- DIN 55405:2014-12 Packaging - Terminology - Terms and definitions
- Packaging Act (VerpackG) of July 5, 2017 (BGBl. I p. 2234), last amended by Article 2 of the Act of September 22, 2021 (BGBl. I p. 4363)
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